On some days, the library just doesn’t cut it. Maybe it’s packed with people. Maybe it’s gloomy out and you’re looking for a livelier place to work. Maybe you’re wearing long pants and you don’t want to walk for half an hour and collect city grime on the ends (this has happened to me on numerous occasions). Maybe it’s all three. Whatever it is, you’ve still got those deadlines and your room is messy and uninspiring.

So where to go? I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite work spots in and around lower Manhattan—because gatekeeping is for the insecure. I’ve rated each spot on various factors, including but not limited to: food options, outlets, and price.

1. Moxy NYC East Village

I’m a sucker for a comfy hotel lounge, and The Moxy has exactly that. I’ve never been to the LES location, but the East Village hotel hosts a coffee shop during the day and a bar at night.

Food Options: The coffee shop at The Moxy East Village has pretty decent coffee options and a few pastries and snacks. It’s not a fully stocked kitchen, but there’s some food to tide you over if you’ll be there for a while.

Noise Level: There’s not too much noise during the day, but once the bar sets up at night the music and chatter can get pretty loud. There’s plenty of seating far away from the bar, but the noise still carries.

Outlets: Outlets galore! If you have an old phone that needs to charge every two hours, this is the place. There’s no shortage of places to plug your devices in—although be warned, some of the outlets are defunct.

Space: This location is extremely spacious and there are tons of tables, chairs, sofas, and cozy stools to get situated at.

Price: Technically $0, since you can pretty much walk right in without buying anything.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: There are bathrooms here, although it took me a while to find them (they’re tucked behind the bookcase!). They’re fairly clean most of the time, but they’re usually full and you may have to wait a few minutes.

2. PlantShed Cafe East Village

I’m not exaggerating when I say the map widget on my phone thinks I live here. If I’m not home, I’m probably here. Does that count as doxxing myself? Maybe, but at least I’m being productive!

Food Options: I love the coffee here, and they often have pastries as well. Plus, their kitchen serves up mini meals like avocado toast! Special shout-out to the baristas, who always sport iconic outfits and well-placed piercings. Is that some sort of hiring criteria, or is something in the air?

Noise Level: There’s always some music on, but nothing too loud or distracting.

Outlets: There is (to my knowledge) only one outlet, and good luck trying to get a spot next to it. Make sure your devices are charged up before you arrive.

Space: I rarely get a spot here right away unless it’s like, Tuesday mid-morning. I usually have to lounge around, admire the plants for a bit, then swoop in like a shark when someone vacates their spot.

Price: Usually around $6-$8 for a coffee or tea. Good luck walking out without a little plant buddy, though.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: To be honest, I’ve never used the bathroom here, I’m usually too busy hanging on to my seat. Yelp says they have one, though.

3. Sammy L Coffee

This is where I go when PlantShed is way too full—it’s just one avenue over! It’s fun and cozy and has a huge variety of drinks. Plus, a great spot for people-watching (what? I don’t do that…).

Food Options: This is probably the best spot on this list when it comes to variety. They have a ton of snacks and drinks, including boba, and also serve a huge array of mini meals and filling bites.

Noise Level: They normally have music on, but the people-chatter is usually louder.

Outlets: There’s a pretty decent array of outlets here, although some tables can’t access them. Still, there’s a pretty high chance you’ll be able to plug in.

Space: There’s a ton of spots here, although the space is pretty tight. It’s usually easy to get a spot for yourself, but can be harder if you’re going with more than one person. Weekends are pretty much impossible.

Price: Usually around $6-$8 for a drink, pricing varies for meals and snacks.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: They have a bathroom, although there’s usually a line for it.

4. The James NoMad

I guess this isn’t technically lower Manhattan but I did say “in and around”. One thing about me is that I like to be cozy, and this hotel lobby has wonderfully cozy window-side couches.

Food Options: None, although they have free lemon water? Whole Foods is right across the street, though.

Noise Level: Not too loud, not eerily silent either.

Outlets: There’s a pretty decent chance you get an outlet, since there aren’t a lot of people in here at most times.

Space: There’s not too many places to sit, but it’s not usually packed either. I mentioned it before, but those window-side couches are insanely comfortable, and I love walking around Flatiron/NoMad once I’m done working.

Price: Technically $0, unless you want to book a hotel room for whatever reason.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: You can use the hotel lobby bathroom, just make sure to ask the concierge!

5. St. George Coffee

I’ve only been here once, but I was impressed by both the vibes and the quality of the coffee. Apparently they’re owned by Brandy Melville, which I was not aware of until right now.

Food Options: There are pretty decent Italian sandwiches here, and they sell an impressive array of breads and pastries as well. Be sure to know that they don’t serve dairy milk!

Noise Level: There’s usually some loud music on. It’s not a problem for me, but it may be for others.

Outlets: There are some outlets here. Be sure to know that they don’t allow laptops on weekends!

Space: There’s two levels to this store, each with a decent level of seating. However, some of the chairs look uncomfortable—and you may have to get settled in those if it’s busy.

Price: Usually around $6-$8 for a coffee or drink. No up-charge for non-dairy milk, obviously.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: They have bathrooms. I haven’t used them, so I can’t say anything more.

6. Qahwah House West Village

If you’re craving a lively atmosphere and a warm pot of tea. Also a great spot for late night study—on weekends, they’re open until one in the morning.

Food Options: They have a ton of yummy Yemeni desserts and pastries. The Yemeni chai is also amazing, and they serve it in beautiful pots if you eat in. Plus, the service here is amazing!

Noise Level: It’s usually crowded, and there’s some people-chatter going on at all times.

Outlets: There are a ton of outlets here. You’ll definitely grab one if you get there early enough.

Space: There’s a decent amount of space here, but it gets really crowded into the afternoon and early evening. Your best bet is to set up shop before noon.

Price: Usually around $6-$8 for a drink. The price varies per pastry, but you should definitely try one.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: They have gender neutral restrooms, and they keep them extremely clean.

7. Devoción Flatiron

The star of the show here is the coffee, although the iced teas are yummy as well. Again, not under 14th Street, but I’m letting myself get away with it.

Food Options: Really flavorful and unique teas and coffees. They have a few baked goods, but this place is really for annoying coffee people like me.

Noise Level: It’s usually full of people, but most are busy working so it’s not super noisy.

Outlets: There are outlets here and there—you might not get one at first, but it’s easy to move tables if one opens up.

Space: There’s a lot of space, although it can get pretty packed on weekends. Still, you’re more likely than not to find a spot.

Price: Usually around $6-$8 for a coffee. The iced teas are cheaper and just as yummy.

WiFi: Yes.

Bathrooms: They have a bathroom, but I’ve never used it.